Recognising the signs early
Persistent sleep disturbance, avoidance of specific site types, emotional numbness, increased alcohol use. Any one warrants attention; two together warrant action.
What to actually do
Speak to your line manager. Access your EAP if provided (call, not email — it's faster). GP as a fallback. Charities including Backup and Mind offer specific security-adjacent support.
For managers
Normalise the conversation. Debrief every significant incident within 24 hours. Track who has been on multiple high-stress incidents in a rolling window.